To Lewis directly, Fields said: “We believe in callings and sometimes we’re called for such a time as this. As you continue to think about [running for mayor], know there’s a whole lot of people praying about it. Stay in the race.”
The LEADER’s Network includes more than 20 West Side pastors, including co-chairs Rev. Ira Acree of Austin and Rev. Marshall Hatch of WestGarfieldPark. Newly-announced 29th Ward aldermanic candidate Deborah Williams is an administrator for the organization.
Former 29th Ward alderman Isaac “Ike” Carothers, who’s now a political consultant, also spoke at the Aug. 12, event about the basics of running a political campaign. He said that despite Emanuel’s bad poll ratings among the black community, if the votes were counted that day, Emanuel would be reelected.